Jo Ann Efird, age 85 of Malvern, died Sunday, February 25, 2024 at her home.  She was born in the Saginaw Community on July 13, 1938 to the late William L. Wheatley and Jeffie White Wheatley.  She was reared and educated in Malvern.  She married Allen Efird on November 23, 1955, and they were wed for nearly 66 years.  He preceded her in death in 2021.  Jo Ann was a member of the Church of Faith.  She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.  Growing up in a large family, Jo Ann had 13 siblings, 12 of whom have gone on before her.  Jo Ann worked at Precision Industries as a machine operator for many years.  She helped her husband put in a garden each year, out of which they shared their bounty with family and friends.  They were well known for raising and selling guinea fowl at their farm.  Her family will attest that she was a wonderful cook and homemaker.  Freed from the encumbrances of earth, she is now in the presence of her Lord.
Jo Ann is survived by her children, Joy Wiley (David) of Malvern; Dr. Terry Efird (Angie) of Prairie Grove, Arkansas; Philip Efird (Waldir) of St. Petersburg, Florida; and Scott Efird (Kristi) of Malvern; a sister, LaDonna Mosier of Plano, Texas; five grandchildren, Jared Wiley (Jessica), Jessica Bellows (Alex), Alison Wright (Jarod), Eli Efird (Nevada), and Kazz Efird-Kearnes (Nathan); and by eight great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be on Wednesday evening, February 28th, 2024, from 5-7 at J. A. Funk Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held on Thursday morning, February 29th, at 11:00, in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery near Donaldson.
Pallbearers will be Jared Wiley, Eli Efird, Jarod Wright, Nathan Kearnes, Denton Wiley, Jeff Mosier, Wayne Wheatley, and Tony Huffman.
The family extends their gratitude to Jo Ann's neighbors, the Daniel Callas family for their friendship throughout the years, and to all her caregivers.  Special thanks to Gentiva Hospice for their compassionate care.
Memorials may be made to The Church of Faith, 923 Wilson Street, Malvern, Arkansas 72104